Post by tmesis on Apr 28, 2018 22:14:04 GMT
I love this ballet and have now lost count of the number of times I've seen it. Choreography is by Kenneth Macmillan, who, together with Ashton defines the Royal Ballet style. Tonight the leading roles were immaculately danced by Alexander Campbell as Des Grieux (what a handsome man he is) and Arkane Takada as Manon. Both were superb at conveying the passion and tragedy of the story. For me Macmillan is pre-eminent at being able to convey passion and sheer sexiness in his dance moves, without it ever straying from proper ballet. More modern choreographers like Wayne Macgregor, Liam Scarlett or Matthew Bourne are just not able to do it in the same way. I think this, together with Romeo and Juliet is his most successful, full length, ballet. Wonderful as R & J is (and it does have the advantage of one of the best ever ballet scores) this is more satisfying - R&J has some really clunky scene changes and it really needs a new set; the current one now looks horribly dated. I would say this would be the best introduction to Macmillan's unique style for a newcomer.
Incidentally, ENB are doing this at The Coliseum in early 2019 so I will be fascinated to see their take on his genius.
Incidentally, ENB are doing this at The Coliseum in early 2019 so I will be fascinated to see their take on his genius.
